NCJ Number
213605
Date Published
October 2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This report presents findings from surveys completed by 676 prisoners shortly before their release from Texas prisons and State jails and their return to the Houston area.
Abstract
Sixty-three percent of the respondents had multiple convictions, and 35 percent had served time for a parole or probation violation. Forty-five percent did not have a high school diploma or equivalent upon entering prison or jail; and over half had been fired from a job in the past. At least 9 percent obtained their GED during incarceration, and 15 percent had a job lined up for after their release. Eighty percent reported illegal drug use prior to incarceration (mostly cocaine and marijuana), but only 21 percent participated in a drug or alcohol treatment program while incarcerated. Female prisoners had more serious histories of drug use than male prisoners and were less likely to have received substance abuse treatment while incarcerated. Seventy-nine percent rated their health as "good" or "excellent," but a significant percentage reported having been diagnosed with chronic or infectious diseases, as well as mental disorders. State jail inmates had lower levels of self-esteem and control over their lives than State prisoners, and they were less likely to have supportive family relationships. The inmates anticipated that family would be the most significant source of financial resources for them after release, and they expected family members to provide housing and emotional support; 80 percent believed that renewing relationships with their children would not be a problem. Participants were recruited over a 7-month period from the two State prisons to which all inmates are transferred before release, as well as two State jails that house a high number of inmates from the Houston area. The study sample was representative of other 2004-2005 releasees in Harris County. 2 tables, 12 notes, and 5 suggestions for further reading